June 16, 2005 Privately held NeurogexX announced it started a new Phase III trial of its NGX-4010 product to treat postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). NGX-4010 is a trans-capsaicin dermal patch that is applied topically to the painful area. Trans-capsaicin is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring capsaicin, the ingredient that makes hot chili peppers hot. In NGX-4010, the concentration is much higher than the hottest peppers, with enough active ingredient to destroy nerve endings responsible for conducting pain signals. The nerve endings eventually regenerate, but a capsaicin treatment is good for several months to one year. We look at results from completed trials, plus a rough schedule of what lies ahead for NeurogesX...
